This year, Boston University was selected at-large for limited participation in the nomination process. BU will compete uniquely for Individual Biomedical Research Awards by nominating two individuals to compete in the same process as those nominees derived from the Hartwell Top Ten.

In selecting each research center of excellence, The Hartwell Foundation takes into account the shared values the institution has with the Foundation relating to children's health, the presence of an associated medical school and biomedical engineering program, and the quality and scope of ongoing biomedical research. The Foundation also considers the institutional commitment to provide technical support to the investigator, especially as related to translational approaches that could promote rapid clinical application of research results, including technology transfer.

The Hartwell Foundation invites each of its Top Ten Centers to participate in nominating four individuals for a Hartwell Individual Biomedical Research Award. Seven Hartwell Top Ten research institutions in 2007 were repeat selections. This year, Boston University was selected at-large for limited participation in the nomination process.